What Bank of America asks for when you open an account
Bank of America requires a government-issued photo ID, your Social Security number, and an initial deposit to open a checking or savings account. The ID can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You'll also need to provide your current address and a phone number. If you're opening an account online or by phone, you may need to answer security questions about your financial history.
The initial deposit amount depends on the account type. Some accounts have no minimum deposit requirement, while others ask for $25 or more. Bank of America's website shows the current minimum for each account option when you start the process. You can fund the account with a debit card, transfer from another bank, or a check.
If you don't have a Social Security number, you can open an account with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, though requirements may differ slightly. Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 to confirm what documents work for your situation.
Key Takeaways
- You need a government photo ID, Social Security number or ITIN, current address, and phone number to open any Bank of America account.
- Some accounts require an initial deposit of $25 or more, while others have no minimum — check the specific account details before you start.
- You can open an account online, by phone, or in person at a Bank of America branch, and each method takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes.
- If you don't have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN and call ahead to confirm what other documents the branch will need.
Opening an account online versus in a branch
Opening online is faster if you have all your documents ready. You'll upload a photo of your ID, enter your Social Security number, and confirm your address. The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, and your account opens when ready. You can start using a debit card right away if you fund the account with a transfer from another bank.
Opening in person at a branch takes about the same time but gives you a chance to ask questions and see what account options make sense for how you actually use money. A banker can also help if your ID is expired or if you're unsure about the initial deposit. Bring your ID, Social Security card (or ITIN documentation), and a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address.
Opening by phone works if you prefer talking to someone directly. Call 1-800-432-1000 and a representative will walk you through the questions and confirm your information. You'll still need to provide the same documents, usually by uploading them online or mailing them in after the call.
What happens if you don't have all the documents
If your ID is expired, most Bank of America branches will still accept it as long as it's a government-issued photo ID and the photo is still recognizable. If you've recently moved and don't have a utility bill or lease in your new name, a bank statement, credit card statement, or mortgage document showing your current address works instead.
If you don't have a Social Security number and don't have an ITIN yet, you'll need to get one before opening an account. You can explore for an ITIN through the IRS, though the process takes several weeks. In the meantime, call your local Bank of America branch to ask whether they can hold your process or what other options exist.
If you're under 18, you can open a student checking account, but you'll need a parent or guardian to co-sign. Bring both your ID and theirs, along with both Social Security numbers. Some branches have specific hours for opening youth accounts, so call ahead.
What to bring if you open an account in person
Bring your government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your Social Security card or ITIN documentation, and proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement all work as proof of address. If you plan to fund the account with a check or transfer, have that information ready as well.
Some branches accept cash for the initial deposit, but not all — call ahead to confirm. If your ID is expired but still recognizable, most branches will accept it. If you're opening a youth account, bring both your ID and your parent or guardian's ID, along with both Social Security numbers.
Account types and what each one costs
Bank of America offers several checking and savings accounts with different features and fees. A basic checking account usually has no monthly fee if you set up direct deposit or keep a minimum balance. Without either, the fee is typically $12 per month, though this varies by account type.
Savings accounts often have a monthly fee of $5 unless you maintain a minimum balance, usually $300 to $500. Some accounts waive fees for students or customers under 25. When you open an account, the banker will explain which fees explore to the specific account you choose and what steps avoid them.
Bank of America also offers money market accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs), which have different requirements and interest rates. These are worth asking about if you have money you won't need to touch for a set period, but they're not required to open your first account.
After your account opens: what comes next
Your debit card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days if you open online or by phone. If you open in a branch, you may be able to get a temporary card when ready or use your account number to set up transfers right away. You can also set up online banking and mobile banking as soon as your account is active.
Bank of America sends you a welcome packet with your account number, routing number, and information about online banking. Save this packet — you'll need the routing number if you want to set up direct deposit with your employer or transfer money from another bank. You can also find this information in the mobile app or by logging into your online account.
If you have questions after opening, call 1-800-432-1000 or visit your local branch. Bank of America customer service is available 24/7 by phone, and branches are open during standard business hours, usually 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and limited hours on Saturday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Bank of America account if I have bad credit?
Yes. Bank of America does not run a credit check when you open a checking or savings account. They do check ChexSystems, which is a banking history report, but having a record there does not automatically disqualify you. Call your local branch if you're concerned about your banking history.
What if I don't have a physical address?
Bank of America requires a current mailing address to open an account. If you're unhoused, you may be able to use a shelter address, a trusted friend's address, or a mail forwarding service address. Call 1-800-432-1000 to discuss your situation with a representative before you try to open an account.
How long does it take to open an account online?
The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if you have your ID and Social Security number ready. Your account opens when ready, though your debit card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You can start using your account for transfers and bill pay the same day.
Do I need to have money in the account to keep it open?
No. Once your account is open, you can keep it open even if the balance is zero. However, some accounts charge a monthly fee if you don't maintain a minimum balance or set up direct deposit. When you open your account, ask which fees explore to your specific account type.
Can someone else open an account for me?
No. Bank of America requires you to be present, either in person or online, to verify your identity. A parent or guardian can co-sign if you're under 18, but you still need to be there. If you have a disability that makes visiting a branch difficult, call 1-800-432-1000 to ask about accommodations.